What are common uses of lead?

Answer

Lead is used in a variety of consumer and manufacturing products, including ammunition, batteries, plastics, tank liners, pesticides and some metal alloys. The metal has been used since ancient times.

Lead is a natural metal that is available in quite an abundance, which means that it is used in many common items. Due to its poisonous qualities, lead compounds are not allowed in some products. This includes paint and other items that humans may consume or come into contact with. This varies based on country. While lead paint is banned in the U.S., it is used in other countries like Cameroon.

Batteries are the most common use of lead. In fact, lead-acid batteries make up about two-thirds of lead that is used in the United States.